NOVEMBER 9

BIND OR LOOSE?

MARK 5:1-20


“Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.” (Mark 5:4)

People attempted to bind this man. Isn’t that typical? We usually seek to limit anyone or anything that threatens us. We think of how we can protect ourselves first. This leads to actions toward others that may be cruel and vicious, just as people’s treatment of this man. Then we justify our actions by reasoning that our own interests must come first.

Jesus was different. He loved this man that everyone else feared and hated. He didn’t bind him. He loosed him. This is one of the great distinguishing characteristics between true Christianity and religion. The word translated religion in the New Testament means “to dock”. This word paints a picture of binding a ship to a dock with ropes. The root of this word always refer to some type of binding. Relion binds, but Jesus sets free.

In our day, religion has many people bound. Our performance-based doctrine binds people with rules and regulations instead of building a loving relationship. They’re tormented and run from a “God” that binds. If people could see that Jesus loves them and wants them set free, they’d run and worship at His feet, just like this Gadarene demoniac.

You encounter people every day who are bound by religion or whom religion is trying to bind and put out of sight. Instead of following the world, follow the example of Jesus and loose them with the love of God. Without your intervention, they’re doomed to a life of bondage among the dead. (AW)

.